Choosing a physician is an important decision. This is why we have offices located across the Baton Rouge area and some with early and after-hours appointments. We're dedicated to the health of our community and the well-being of each of our patients. Welcome to our Community of Caring.

Hospitalist Program

During your stay at Baton Rouge General, your care may be managed by a hospitalist through the Hospital Medicine Group, one of the largest hospital medicine groups in the state of Louisiana.

What is a hospitalist?Hospitalists are doctors who specialize in caring for patients in the hospital. Hospitalists function as your primary care doctor during your stay at the hospital. Trained in internal medicine and/or family medicine, our hospitalists have the skills and expertise needed to provide care specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of hospitalized patients and their families. We work with other specialists to monitor, guide and coordinate all major aspects of your treatment.

What are the benefits of a hospitalist?The hospitalist is there to concentrate on you and follow your care in the hospital, monitor your progress, and facilitate discharge planning. He or she is trained in the latest methods, and he can see you multiple times a day if necessary.

Will the same hospitalist care for me the entire time I am in the hospital?
Normally you will be seen by the same Hospitalist along with other members of the inpatient team during your stay. Your Hospitalist coordinates the inpatient team which may include physician specialists, nurse practitioners, case managers and other professionals. A member of the inpatient team is there to see you as many times a day as your condition requires.

What role will my primary care physician have during my hospital stay?
Your hospitalist knows that excellent communication is the key to providing quality care, and communicates with your primary care physician when you are admitted to the hospital and again when you are discharged. The transition of your care from your primary care physician to the hospitalist will be a seamless one.

If any major issues occur during your hospitalization, the hospitalist will advise your primary care physician. In this way, your primary care physician is aware of any changes in your condition. Of course, he or she can also contact the hospitalist at any time during your stay to learn about your progress.

When You Go Home
When you are discharged from the hospital, your primary care physician will resume management of your medical care. To make this transition as smooth as possible, your primary care physician will have direct access to all medical records from your hospitalization. To continue your care with as little interruption as possible, the hospitalist will recommend a specific time when you should begin follow-up care with your primary physician. It is essential that you call your doctor's office to arrange your appointment.